Tween refers to children from 8 to 13 years old, also known as preteens. The calorie needs of this group vary widely, depending on exact age, size, gender and activity level.
Considerations
The more active a tween is, the greater his calorie needs. As children get older, they generally need more calories to support daily activity as well as physical and mental growth.
Calorie Recommendations
A girl just entering the tweens needs between 1,200 and 1,800 calories per day, while an 8-year-old boy needs between 1,400 and 2,000 calories per day, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. Older tween girls -- from 9 to 13 -- should consume between 1,600 and 2,000 calories. Older boys, up to age 13, need between 1,800 and 2,600 calories per day. Sedentary, younger children should stick to the lower range in each age group while more active, older children should aim for the higher range.
Concerns
Children are susceptible to weight gain if they regularly consume more calories than they burn. Encourage your child to be physically active and discourage consumption of foods high in added sugar and fat, such as chips, soda, candy, processed baked sweets and fried foods. Fostering these habits can help keep your tween at a healthy weight.
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